What Causes Mould
Mould grows where moisture and warmth meet. In Townsville, both are in abundance, particularly during the wet season. A property with inadequate ventilation, a leak that has not been reported or repaired, a drainage issue allowing moisture to accumulate, or a high-humidity environment without sufficient airflow is a mould risk regardless of how well it is maintained.
The cause of the mould matters because it determines responsibility. Mould caused by a structural defect, a roof leak, or a plumbing issue that the landlord failed to repair is the landlord's problem. Mould caused by a tenant who kept windows closed and failed to ventilate is more complex.
Queensland Standards and Landlord Obligations
Under Queensland's minimum housing standards, a rental property must be weatherproof, mould-free, and maintain structural integrity. A landlord who is aware of mould in their property and fails to address it is in breach of the minimum standards and exposed to QCAT action.
The landlord's obligation is to address the mould and address its cause. Cleaning mould without fixing the underlying moisture issue simply results in the mould returning.
Responding to a Mould Report
When a tenant reports mould, the response should be prompt. Acknowledge the report, arrange an inspection to assess the extent and cause, and take action. Document everything: the report, the inspection, the findings, the action taken, and the outcome.
At The Rental Managers, maintenance requests including mould reports are logged and responded to under a clear process. We can advise on both the immediate response and the longer-term prevention strategies for your Townsville property.
